THE WHITE CANE BULLETIN
FLORIDA COUNCIL OF THE BLIND, INC.
July - August 2008
FCB OFFICERS, 2008 - 2010
President:
Debbie Grubb
4215 17th Ave. W
Bradenton, FL 34205
(941) 749-6178
E-mail: debbiecg@verizon.net
First Vice President:
Robert Miller
2201 Limerick Dr.
Tallahassee, FL 32309
(850) 906-9821
E-mail: easytalk@earthlink.net
Second Vice President:
John S. Richards, Jr.
939 NE 18th St.
Ocala, FL 34470
(352) 629-4530
E-mail: jsrj@embarqmail.com
Treasurer:
Patti Land
6933 Alpert Dr.
Orlando, FL 32810
(407) 521-9047
E-mail: pattianne1@cfl.rr.com
Membership Secretary:
Sally Benjamin
1531 Dempsey Mayo Road
Tallahassee, FL 32308
(850) 877-1512
E-mail: floridacouncil@comcast.snet
Recording Secretary:
Sharon Youngs
237 Maple Ave.
Palm Harbor, FL 34684
(727) 937-8631
E-mail: sky11@tampabay.rr.com
Immediate Past President:
Paul Edwards
20330 NE 20th Ct.
Miami, FL 33179
(305) 692-9206
E-mail: edwpaul@bellsouth.net
Editor of White Cane Bulletin:
Sharon Youngs
237 Maple Ave.
Palm Harbor, FL 34684
(727) 937-8631
E-mail: sky11@tampabay.rr.com
Articles for the White Cane Bulletin must be submitted to Sally Benjamin no later than the 20th of the month before it is published.
Sally's E-mail is: floridacouncil@comcast.net.
If you do not have access to a computer and E-mail, please find someone in your chapter to help send it. We would like to hear from
anyone who wants to contribute to our newsletter. If you don’t have a way to write an article, you can call Sharon Youngs at the number
above and she will be glad to write it for you.
Articles published in The White Cane Bulletin are in compliance with Public Law No. 104197, Copyright Law Amendment of 1996.
This law allows authorized entities to distribute copies of previously published non-dramatic literary works in specialized formats,
including Braille, audio or digital text that are exclusively for use by Blind people or those with disabilities. Any further distributing of such
articles in another than a specialized format is an infringement of copyright.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ARE YOU MOVING? - by Sally Benjamin
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE - by Debbie Grubb
ELECTIONS VERIFICATION NETWORK CONFERENCE - by Doug Hall
SPOTLIGHT ON NANCY BURGESS-HALL - by Sila Miller
FCB BUS 2009 - by Sally Benjamin
FROM THE EMPLOYMENT COMMITTEE: THIS WEBSITE IS INDEED A GREAT FIND FOR JOB SEEKERS! - by Debbie
Downey
POETRY CORNER: STOPPING BY WOODS ON A SNOWY EVENING - by Robert Frost (Submitted by Shelley
Justice)
HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS CAPTURE TOP 2008 FCB SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS - by Barbara Grill
FCCLV AWARDS SCHOLARSHIP TO DIONNE DYER - by Barbara Grill
A SUMMER OF LEARNING - by Michelle Bienstock of Fort Lauderdale
FLORIDA COUNCIL OF THE BLIND AWARD WINNERS FOR 2008 - by John Richards for the Awards Committee
REFLECTIONS ON RECEIVING THE COOKE AWARD - by Mike Taylor
TECH TIPS - by John Richards for the FCB Technology Committee
CHAPTER NEWS - Mid-Florida Council of the Blind
RECIPE CORNER
FOIL - Submitted by Sheila Young
HANDY TELEPHONE NUMBER REFERENCES
ARE YOU MOVING? - by Sally Benjamin
If you are moving, please notify me of your new address so you will continue to receive your White Cane Bulletin. Also, if you know of
anyone interested in joining FCB and would like to receive the White Cane Bulletin and the Braille Forum, please contact me at
1-800-267-4448 or E-mail floridacouncil@comcast.net.
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PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE - by Debbie Grubb
Included in all of the beauty and wonder of the month of May was the successful celebration of FCB's 55th Annual Convention. Our
Convention Committee, chaired by Sila Miller, did a fantastic job in bringing together all of the components of our annual event. Many
thanks to Sila for also acting in the role of Convention Registrar. Thanks, too, to Sila and Vice President, Robert Miller, for working with
some of their good friends to bring off the second Thursday evening barbecue which serves as a fundraiser for FCB and brings friends
together for food, fun and fellowship. Many thanks to Sally Benjamin for her assistance with registration, for coordinating the FCB
Convention Bus and for everything else that she did to enhance the convention experience for FCB Members and Friends. Sharon Youngs
again ably brought together a varied group of exhibitors for Convention attendees' learning and shopping pleasure. Jim Kracht met the
challenge of offering our gift of music to bring Saturday's busy Convention schedule to a warm and lovely conclusion. What Convention
would be complete without Rosanna Lippen's impressive hotel coordination skills? I heard glowing reports about the hotel from many in
attendance at this year's event. Luckily for us, this is not our last Convention at this fine facility.
I had the pleasure of preparing the Convention Program. It was such a privilege to work with the fine men and women who brought their
knowledge and expertise to us in Jacksonville. Many thanks to FCB's Technology Committee, chaired by John Richards, for once again
bringing a leading edge workshop to our Convention. Thanks to John for ably chairing FCB's Awards Committee and thanks to Sharon
Youngs for sharing her warmth and knowledge of FCB history as she once again hosted the annual awards banquet. Many thanks, too, to
Barbara Grill and the hard working Education and Leadership Committee for awarding our scholarships to such deserving men and
women and for publicizing the work of FCB while doing so. Congratulations to all of the recipients of FCB's Awards and Scholarships.
Thanks to Joyce Thornton and her family for all the hard work that they undertook to serve everyone at the FCB fundraiser Mary Kay Booth.
Their selfless hard work brought $500 to the FCB Treasury. Immediate Past President Paul Edwards assists me every year by hosting
the FCB Banquet and he and our Treasurer, Patti Land, ably educate our first timers on Friday afternoon at each Convention. The highlight
of the Sunday morning business meeting was the election of the officers that will serve FCB for the next two years. I speak for all the
Officers when I say that we truly appreciate your confidence in us. It is my pleasure to once again serve as your President. There are no
words to express my gratitude to you for entrusting me with this high honor and great responsibility.
Robert Miller and John Richards again serve as First and Second Vice Presidents. Sharon Youngs was again elected as FCB's Secretary.
Shelley Justice also ran for this position. As I said during the Business Meeting, I’m sure that an FCB Officer position is in Shelley's future.
Patti Land was elected for another term as FCB’s Treasurer. Sally Benjamin, Project Insight Coordinator, was elected to her first term as
FCB's Membership Secretary. Many thanks to Linda Jacobson for her years of service in this position. It was my privilege to present to
Linda the President's Award to honor her for her exemplary service to the Florida Council of the Blind. The FCB Officers who make up the
organization's Executive Committee promise to live up to the honor that you have bestowed on each of us. In my next message to you, I will
report on the status of the meaningful resolutions that were passed during our 55th Annual Convention.
I have appointed chairs to all of the FCB standing committees. They are Access, Doug Hall; Archives, Sharon Youngs; Awards, John
Richards has appointed Dory Israel; Budget and Finance, Patti Land; Constitution and Bylaws, Jim Kracht; Convention, Sila Miller;
Education and Leadership, Barbara Grill; Employment, Mary Ellen Ottman; Fundraising, William Benjamin; Membership, Sally Benjamin;
Project Insight, Debbie Drylie and Paul Edwards; Public Relations, Carl McCoy, Publications, Sally Benjamin, Resolutions, Jesus Garcia;
and Technology, John Richards.
In early July, approximately 25 FCB members will meet in Louisville, KY, to attend the National Convention of the American Council of the
Blind. Robert Miller will serve as FCB's Delegate. Sally Benjamin will perform the duties of the Alternate Delegate and William Benjamin
will serve as FCB's Delegate to the ACB Nominating Committee. As it has a habit of doing, time will fly and FCB will host the ACB
Convention in 2009 -- this time in Orlando. The Host Committee is already formed for this event and we have invited representatives from
the Clay County and Jacksonville Chapters to serve as consultants as we endeavor to replicate the wonderful work of these chapters
when FCB hosted the ACB Convention in Jacksonville.
FCB and the other consumer groups continue to work toward the end of a fair and inclusive process for the interviewing of the nine
candidates under consideration for the directorship of the Division of Blind Services. Robert Kelly, President of FAASB, Kathy Davis,
President of NFBF, and I are in contact with representatives of the Florida Department of Education as we seek our rightful place in this
process. As of this writing, participation in the procedure by consumer groups has not yet been determined. The Department of Education
originally offered the consumers one representative on the interview team. All of us are indignant that the team would be heavily
represented by administrators, allowing only one representative who is blind to participate on the interview team. We are diligently working
to correct this injustice. I hope to have good news to report to you in my next President's Message.
As I begin my second term as FCB's President, I promise to continue to give you my best. The work is hard and often doesn't bring forth
the results that I wish for each of us. However, we must not give up. We must keep the faith and celebrate our little victories. Because of
our meeting with two of Governor Crist's Deputy Chiefs of Staff, we now have a good contact in his Office which should make bringing our
concerns to Governor Crist's attention easier. Please feel free to phone or e-mail me if you would like to discuss anything regarding the
ongoing work of FCB. Please do encourage your Chapter Presidents to attend the monthly Presidents' Meetings. Have a wonderful
summer.
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ELECTIONS VERIFICATION NETWORK CONFERENCE - by Doug Hall
As attendees of FCB's 2007 Convention may recall, Paul Edwards and Jesus Garcia introduced Dan McCrae and Pamela Haengel from
the Florida Voters Coalition. Acknowledging that both groups want to improve the voting system of the United States, it was decided that
FCB and the Florida Voters Coalition coordinate efforts to ensure that ALL voters experience an honest, independent, private and verifiable
voting experience.
This Spring, I was asked by President Debbie Grubb to participate in a presentation and discussion of "Usability and Accessibility" of
voting equipment at the 2008 Conference of the Elections Verification Network in New Orleans on March 27th and 28th. What an
adventure! My objective was to assert our position that the voting process and equipment must be available and accessible to all voters,
including those of us with disabilities.
My wife Nancy accompanied me, thinking that she would act the part of a tourist as I participated in the conference. Wrong. Not only did
Dan and Pam from the Florida Voters Coalition make both of us feel welcome, but I developed a severe case of laryngitis the night before
we left. Nancy ended up reading my presentation and repeating the responses I whispered to the other participants.
I explained that accessibility begins long before casting of the vote. The entire process starts with being able to register and having
access to information about issues and candidates. The person who is mobility or dexterity impaired must be able to travel to and enter
the polling facility, sign in, get to the voting booth, manipulate the voting equipment, verify his vote and independently cast it. The human
factor comes into play, wherein the poll worker has knowledge of the equipment, knowledge of procedures and policies, and the ability to
work with all voters with sensitivity.
Laws and regulations must not discriminate against, nor segregate people with disabilities. Whether votes are cast on machines or by
filling in squares or circles on a paper ballot, the voter's wishes must be verifiable equally. If paper ballots are to be required for voters
who don't have disabilities, the same regulations should be true for those of us who do. If a voter is to independently verify his or her votes
prior to finalizing them; then this option must be afforded to all voters, whether disabled or not. The person with a disability should have the
same access to the process and equipment that other voters have.
The audience at our session appeared supportive of my statements that people with disabilities must be given the same rights as any
other voter; the right to an independent, secret and verifiable voting experience. Participants agreed that members of the Elections
Verification Network, who want to change the voting process in this country, should form coalitions with groups of people with disabilities,
to coordinate efforts and to ensure that no one is left out.
Later during the conference, my opinions were reiterated by others. Speakers emphasized the need to form coalitions with other groups
(such as the League of Women Voters, AARP, high school and university student groups, minority and disability groups) to better educate
potential voters, improve the registration process, encourage people to get involved, and to work with federal, state and local election
officials to develop better voting systems, ballot designs, tabulation and security.
I left the conference with hope that we will be able to work together to ensure an honest, transparent, reliable and verifiable election
process that permits people who are print handicapped to vote independently and in secret.
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SPOTLIGHT ON NANCY BURGESS-HALL - by Sila Miller
Nancy Dyer Burgess-Hall was born to Jean Woodard Dyer and Richard Noyes Burgess on July 16th, 1954. She grew up with 3 younger
brothers near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She lives with Juvenile Polyarticular Rheumatoid Arthritis. This condition is an autoimmune
disease that causes chronic inflammation of all her joints, resulting in stiffness and weakness. While Nancy faces challenges battling this
disease, she continues to drive, work, advocate and be a vital part of FCB.
Nancy's grandmother had been a school teacher and being of a like mind, Nancy also wanted to teach. However, back in the early 1970s
the Occupational Handbook actually stated that nobody with a chronic medical condition could qualify to get a teaching certificate. She
found speech correction under related careers.
Nancy tutored children while attending Bucks County Community College in Newtown, Pennsylvania, and was in a service sorority there
as well. She then transferred to West Chester State College (now University) and earned her Bachelor's in Speech-Language Correction.
After a year's recuperation from two hip replacements -- at age 23, she was one of the youngest people to receive a hip replacement it was
onto Gainesville and a Master of Arts Degree in Speech and Language Pathology at the University of Florida. While there, she won a
Master's level, full year's internship in the Speech-Language Clinic at the Veterans Administration Hospital.
After Nancy and Doug met at that fateful Section 504 Disability Rights conference in Tampa, Nancy fast became one of the gang. Seeking
role models in advocacy, she developed a strong interest in FCB. As members of the Membership Committee, Doug, Paul Edwards and
Vera McClain were starting new chapters throughout the state. They enlisted Nancy's help in getting the original Gainesville Chapter off the
ground.
Nancy and Doug were married on November 10th, 1984, here in Florida with family and friends in attendance. "I chose to keep my last
name. I guess it's a combination of feminism and genealogy," she jokes. What a love/help union the Burgess/Hall one is. She his eyes
and he her physical strength; both interested in continuing their own education, as well as educating and advocating for others -- a true
testimony to an awesome team!
"I have worked with people of all ages and situations," Nancy explains, "people with dementia and/or recovering from strokes, cancer and
other communication impairments in nursing homes, institutionalized people with severe mental handicaps and preschoolers with
language and learning problems." Nancy now works at an elementary school in the Volusia County school system. "I assist children with
a variety of communication impairments, including difficulties in language comprehension, communicating appropriately, reading, as well
as with speech skills (such as saying sounds correctly and smoothly). I evaluate students referred to me and develop therapy plans in
consultation with the student’s teachers and parents."
Nancy was quite resistant to using a wheelchair for a long time. "I thought you only use a wheelchair if you couldn't walk, and I felt like I
would be a malingerer if I started using one," Nancy explained. Finally, a friend got a new chair and convinced Nancy to "store" his old one.
At first, she used it infrequently at places like the mall or Disney that required a lot of walking. As her joints and balance have deteriorated
over the years she has become more dependent on the use of a motorized wheelchair. Nancy's van is specially equipped, enabling her to
travel independently for the most part.
Nancy has endeavored to get the word out about Florida's Braille and Talking Book Library. "For the longest time, it was the consensus
among educators and legislators that listening to books was a crutch. It's only been recently that research has proven the efficacy of audio
books in increasing vocabulary, listening skills, and as an alternate to the printed word, which often is inaccessible or so difficult to
decipher that it impairs comprehension of the context," Nancy says. Approximately 80 percent of Florida's 38,000 library users are
blind.
Nancy and Doug recently became involved in Daytona's Long Range Vision Plan, advocating for pedestrian safety (including audible traffic
signals) and universal design (designing accessibility during the planning stage of construction, rather than retrofitting buildings). "People
were really receptive to our ideas, asking for more information," Nancy says. "I wish more people realized the power of individual
involvement. It is so much harder to fix things and complaining causes defensiveness in the people you are trying to influence. Don't go in
later and complain. Go in during the planning stages like Doug did with the Radio Reading program and like we did with the vision plan,
when ideas are being formulated and people are receptive to them."
Nancy has served on FCB's Archives Committee and is currently president of Friends of Library Access, Inc., Like many in Daytona Beach,
she participates in the local NFB chapter, as well as Halifax Council of the Blind, to better advance the independence and equality of
people with visual impairments and/or other disabilities. As you might well imagine, Nancy has been the deserving recipient of several
prestigious FCB Awards, including The Dolly Gamble and "Just Bill" Humanitarian awards.
Nancy fondly remembers Bill Ferrell, for whom the "Just Bill" Award is named. "At his last Convention, Bill shared his perspective on the
evolution of services, consumer involvement and consumer advocacy groups. Bill had explained that for the longest time sighted
professionals took care of "those poor, disabled, blind people" -- a very paternalistic system. A group of educated blind people that were
consumers rebelled and said wait a minute; we have a right to make our own decisions. Those early NFB(ers), coming from that
paternalistic system of being told what to do, in many ways, carried that practice on because that's what they knew. ACB was created when
a group within NFB disagreed with the policies and practices of the leadership of NFB. The new ACB group endeavored to be more locally
and democratically driven.
Nancy enjoys photography when she has a little spare time and if she had more time would like to develop her skills in journalism, such
as creating newsletters.
"I am really grateful to my parents," Nancy says. "I know they spoiled me in certain ways but they basically taught me, there's a lot you can't
do physically, so you better develop your mind. You need to find other ways of being independent. My parents didn't want me segregated.
They always tried to educate my teachers about my abilities. I had a fairly normal childhood," Nancy reminisces.
It is my humble opinion that both Doug and Nancy's parents did an excellent job at raising them to be independent, motivated, thoughtful,
giving people with a strong desire to help others and make their worlds a better place. I am so grateful for both Nancy and Doug taking
time to share their lives and memories with me. I must say, that these 2 articles have been quite challenging for me. That statement is
meant as the highest of compliments to this dynamic duo. Our interview was two and a half hours and the real challenge was condensing
and cutting, but not too much. I hope in some small way, I've shared the most important of their highlights with you, dear Reader. I know I
am a much richer person for having known both Nancy and Doug. Hats off to you, Nancy and Doug, and thanks for all you have done and
continue to do for FCB.
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FCB BUS 2009 - by Sally Benjamin
For those of you who don't know about the FCB Bus, here are some things which might help you to consider using it to get to our next
convention. We have had the FCB Bus for two years now to take our Members to our Conventions. We are considering doing it again in
2009.
Let me explain how it works. We have a company who we work with and they give us a price according to the number of miles and
distance. When we get the price we divide it by the number of people on the bus. It stops at certain points along the way to the convention.
We would like to do it again this next year but want to let everyone know now so you can be thinking about it. The cost probably will be
around $100 per person. But, if we have more people then it may make the cost go down. So, if you are interested, please, either call the
800 number or e-mail me so I can start getting an idea whether we can do it or not.
Just ask anyone who had ridden on it and they will tell you it is lots of fun to spend time with your friends, singing, talking and passing the
time together. The really great thing is, you don't have to worry about getting a cab to the hotel. In the past, the driver has been available to
transport us to cookouts and this last year, he took people to the mall on Friday morning. Just think you get all that for one price. So,
remember to let me know if your interested.
Amanda
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FROM THE EMPLOYMENT COMMITTEE: THIS WEBSITE IS INDEED A GREAT FIND FOR JOB SEEKERS! - by
Debbie Downey
Are you looking for work? Tired of searching through possibly inaccessible online newspapers or job sites? I've found a website that is,
indeed, the one for you!
It's called indeed.com and it's so easy to use that when typing the address in your web browser, you
don't even need the www! Just type in indeed.com and hit enter and you’re on your way to finding all of the job postings and then some that
you could ever want.
Unlike other job search websites where you may only find jobs that happened to be listed by a small number of employers, indeed.com
searches just about every job site and compiles job postings from all of the major and some not so major job websites all into one
convenient place. No more jumping from website to website just to add to the frustration you are already feeling from having to hunt for that
job in the first place.
You can enter keywords, such as call center or customer service, along with your city or zip code and then you're on your way!
Each job posting will tell you where the listing came from, such as Monster.com or Jobs.com, etc. You can even set up e-mail alerts so
that you'll receive daily job listings as they become available to get a jumpstart on everyone else who is looking for a job.
Again the website is indeed.com and I highly recommend it for anyone who is looking to ease the
pain of searching for work. Stay tuned to the WCB for more job-hunting tips from the Employment Committee.
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POETRY CORNER: STOPPING BY WOODS ON A SNOWY EVENING - by Robert Frost (Submitted by Shelley
Justice)
Whose woods these are, I think I know.
His house is in the village though;
He will not see me stopping here
To watch his woods fill up with snow.
My little horse must think it queer
To stop without a farmhouse near
Between the woods and frozen lake
The darkest evening of the year.
He gives his harness bells a shake
To ask if there is some mistake.
The only other sound's the sweep
Of easy wind and downy flake.
The woods are lovely, dark and deep.
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.
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HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS CAPTURE TOP 2008 FCB SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS - by Barbara Grill
The Florida Council of the Blind, Inc. announced four 2008 scholarship winners during the State FCB Convention on Friday, May 16th.
Three graduating high school students were among this year's winners.
Emily Anne Townsend is the 2008 winner of the prestigious Gayle M. Krause-Edwards $2,000 Scholarship. Emily, of Ormond Beach,
graduated summa cum laude from Maitland High School with a GPA of 3.9.
She was President of the Student Government Association, a member of National Honor Society, the Academy of Scientific Inquiry and the
Student Advisory Board as well as band captain of the marching/concert bands. Emily participated in such programs as Tomorrow's
Leaders and was a recipient of the Daytona Beach News Journal's Medallion of Excellence Award. Other recognitions included the 2008
Miss Mainland and Miss Congeniality, She was also voted most talented in her senior year.
In the fall, Emily will attend Florida State University where she plans to major in Biology. After graduation, her goal is to enter Medical
School at either the University of Miami or Georgetown. After obtaining a degree, Emily hopes to work towards a career in genetics.
She recognizes that her career goals require a lengthy and rigorous amount of study. "Being legally blind is never easy," states Emily. She
realizes the challenges and hard work ahead of her in order to attain her goals. Overcoming barriers and succeeding are a hallmark of her
young life. She has demonstrated tenacity and an ability to succeed in whatever she has pursued. "If I remain positive and work hard,
success is inevitable."
Michelle Bienstock, 18, of Fort Lauderdale is the 2008 winner of the $2,000 Terry Blessing Scholarship. Michelle graduated from Fort
Lauderdale High School with a 3.8 GPA. She will attend Tulane University where she plans to major in Psychology.
She served as representatives to the Broward County Association of Student Councils and Student Leaders. She currently volunteers for
the Kids Beacons of Light and the Lighthouse of the Blind Transition Programs working with children.
Michelle has volunteered at the Lighthouse of Broward over the past year. "This has been one of the most influential experiences of my
life."
The $750 award was presented to Denisse J. Guzman, 18, of Kissimmee. Denisse graduated from the Professional and Technical High
School in Kissimmee, Florida, on May 27, 2008. She graduated with a 4.0 GPA and also a Certificate of Completion for the school's
Culinary Arts program. During her high school years she was also a member of Skills U.S.A., were she had the opportunity of participating
in the 2007 Baking and Pastry Arts regional competition. She was also a member of The National Technical Honor Society and the
President of the Transition group, at the Lighthouse of Central Florida. She also participated at The Dual Enrollment program, where she
earned 12 credits from Valencia Community College.
Denisse's long-term goal is to own and mange a restaurant. To achieve this, she has decided to attend The Culinary Institute of America
in Hyde Park, New York. There she will enter the Culinary Arts, Bachelor's Degree Program. This program will give her the hands-on
culinary training as well as the management skills and knowledge needed to be a successful restaurateur. Denisse has chosen the
Culinary Arts field as her career, because she has a passion for food. Another aspect that drove her in to choosing this field is the
adrenaline packed and exciting environment that characterizes the restaurant field. "I am the type of person who gets bored really easily if I
am not doing something that requires the use of all my senses," says Denisse. She cannot picture herself doing anything else, because
even though this field requires a lot of hard work and dedication, it is also very fun and rewarding.
John (Jack) Jordan of Orlando is this year's Timothy Turpin Career Enhancement Award winner. Jack attends Rollins College and
maintains a 3.78 GPA.
Jack attended Stetson University College of Law in 1982, and began attending law school the summer of that year. It was evident that he
was unhappy but attributed his unhappiness to it being his first year and it being a competitive environment. Although he eventually settled
into the routine of law school, his ambivalence about entering the profession did not diminish. However, by the end of the second year
Jack was determined to finish the program and become a lawyer, despite misgivings. He became a practicing attorney in 1987; however,
in spite of some successes, law never felt like a good match for his personality and world view. In 1996, he became depressed and it
became clear to that the solution was to begin considering a career change. In 2005, he began seriously considering a career options
and was accepted at Rollins College in February 2007, and began the mental health counseling program in the fall of that year. Jack will
have completed one year of the three-year program at the end of this summer.
"In spite of the stress of keeping up with the academic work load, along with handling some legal cases, I know that I have made the right
decision and I am happy." Jack wrote that the FCB scholarship would enable him to attend full time during the fall 2008 semester. And,
after completing that semester, he will begin to see clients as a practicum student in January 2009, and also see clients as a student
intern the following academic year. After graduation in 2010, he hopes to work as a counselor in hospice or practice as a licensed
marriage and family counselor as well as a licensed mental health counselor.
"Being licensed as a marriage and family counselor will enable me to provide counseling to families in which one or more children in the
family are blind. I am interested in this career possibility because it is apparent that many children who are blind are still graduating from
high school with significant problems associated with self-esteem."
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FCCLV AWARDS SCHOLARSHIP TO DIONNE DYER - by Barbara Grill
The Florida Council of Citizens with Low Vision awards the $750 2008 scholarship to Dionne Dyer, 18, of Jacksonville. Dionne graduated
from the Douglas Anderson School of the Arts with a 3.3 GPA. In the fall, she will attend the University of North Florida majoring in Creative
Writing. Dionne has been recognized for her numerous achievements among these are several Latin language and Greek mythology
awards. She plans to continue writing but, also, will pursue a teaching career.
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A SUMMER OF LEARNING - by Michelle Bienstock of Fort Lauderdale
My name is Michelle Bienstock, and working at the Lighthouse of Broward over the past year has been one of the most influential
experiences of my life. At first I was hesitant because I didn't know if I -- being born with Optic Nerve Hyperplasia (a disability causing me to
be over 75 percent blind) -- could do anything to help completely blind children. I was afraid I would not be able to guide them, physically or
emotionally, because I could not guide myself through the blurry world in front of me. On my first day, I was scared out of my mind. A little
boy felt his way over to me and introduced himself as "Cookie Monster." I later learned his name was R.J., and that he had been part of the
Lighthouse family for four years. Although R.J. is completely blind, his smile and laugh showed me that there was something wonderful
going on inside his head. After leaving "Cookie Monster," I was a little less terrified. I had made my first friend.
The leader of the program, Brett, explained we would be teaching the children independent living skills. She said we would be counselors,
and that I would be their role model. A shiver went up my spine. How was I suppose to be a role model, and teach them that being blind
shouldn't hold them back, when I have felt held back my whole life?
After two hours of sleep, and six of tossing, turning, and thinking of how I was supposed to help R.J., I arrived for my second day at the
Lighthouse. A little girl named Amanda ran into me. She felt my shirt and my hair, and the first words she said to me, were "You're pretty."
The slight grin on her face turned into an ear-to-ear smile when I replied, "Not as pretty as you!" How is it that a little girl, who could not see
a thing, could see the beauty in me that I still couldn't see after seventeen years? As I walked Amanda to the class, I saw bruises on her
legs. She refused to use a cane since, according to her, she didn't need one. I looked down at my own legs, noticing a few bruises as
well. Amanda and I had something in common.
One of our most memorable field trips was going to a place called Wanadoo City, where kids can dress up to be any occupation. I saw
some of the most spectacular things that day. Amanda went rock-climbing and Rochelle, who is completely blind, and half deaf, played
piano. I saw smiles the size of the moon, and felt more happiness than I had ever felt before.
The following day, I could not wait to go to the Lighthouse. After a picnic lunch in the park, R.J. and his crush Anna asked if I would push
them on the swings. When R.J. exclaimed, "We're on top of the world!" I went numb. I could no longer feel the pain of the hot sand beneath
my toes, and the sweat on my forehead melted away. I could no longer see R.J.'s chubby cheeks, or Anna's long blonde hair. All I could
see was the three of us on top of the world, flying over Japan, New York, Israel, and South Carolina. I could see it exactly as R.J. described
it. As Anna screamed, entangled in laughter, "Michelle, open your eyes! Do you see it?" I realized that, for the first time, I could. I could see
everything I had ever dreamed of seeing and so much more. From that moment on, I knew that there is nothing I could not see. Because of
those extraordinary children, and everything they taught me, I decided that being visually impaired would never hold me down again.
Everything I thought walking into the Lighthouse that first day, was completely wrong. I never had to guide them; they knew exactly where
they were going. I never had to show them the beauty in front of them; they had been able to see it all along. I never had to inspire them;
they already knew how to live. Instead, they guided me to an emotional state of mind I had never experienced before, and physically
allowed me to do things I had never thought possible. They not only showed me that every part of the world is beautiful, even the parts we
cannot see, but that I was beautiful too. They were my role models. They were my inspiration, not just to live life, but also to love life.
That summer, I learned to push myself a little harder, to trust myself a little more, and to believe in myself. Being visually impaired will
never again stop me from succeeding. That summer, I learned to open my eyes.
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FLORIDA COUNCIL OF THE BLIND AWARD WINNERS FOR 2008 - by John Richards for the Awards
Committee
The Awards and Scholarship Dinner was held at the 2008 Florida Council of the Blind (FCB) Convention in Jacksonville. If you missed it,
make plans to attend next year at the FCB 2009 Annual Convention in Daytona Beach.
The 2008 FCB award winners are as follows:
The R. Henry P. Johnson Award was presented to Robert A. Jones. The Dolly Gamble Award was presented to Gloria Simmons. The
William Alfred (W. A.) Ouzts Award was presented to Robert Miller. The William (Bill) Ferrell (Just Bill) Humanitarian Award was presented
to James Kracht. The Cooke Chapter President's Award went to Mike Taylor. Debbie Grubb gave her President's Special Award to Linda
Jacobson. This year's Mobility Award was presented to Thomas Ray. And this year the Outstanding High School Senior Award was
presented to Michelle Bienstock.
Chapter Awards were presented to the following people by the various Chapters.
Clay Council of the Blind: Pat Taylor
Halifax Council of the Blind: Betty Goodman
Mid-Florida Council of the Blind: Jackie Gideons
Pinellas Council of the Blind: Keith Kewley
Sarasota Chapter: Commissioner Shannon Staub
Tallahassee Council of the Blind: William J. Benjamin
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REFLECTIONS ON RECEIVING THE COOKE AWARD - by Mike Taylor
I was shocked to hear my name called for the awarding of the 2008 Cooke Award. I had served as president of the Clay Council twice. My
first term was not good. I remember the word "impeachment" being bandied about. My second term, and the only one mentioned in my
nomination for the Cooke Award, went much better. The difference was that Linda Jacobson served as President between my two terms
and she had some better ideas that I was able to copy.
Linda came to each and every meeting with copies of her agenda in large print, and in Braille. Simply put, this was a plan for how the
meeting should go that all could share. The President still needs to keep the discussion on topic. This can be done if the agenda is
followed and the proceedings conducted in accordance with Roberts' Rules of Order. With an agenda members will understand the
proper time for discussing issues of concern. An orderly progression through a well thought out agenda can produce positive results.
A Chapter President is always wise to share the responsibilities of planning, and conducting the group's activities. Our Clay Council
By-Laws spell out the responsibilities of each office holder. Involving the other officers is good leadership. A president that informs fellow
officers as to where their report or plans will be called for during the meeting insures a smoother and more orderly presentation. Chapter
Members will find it easier to support activities that appeared to be well planned by the group's leaders.
During my last term, Debbie Drylie and Linda Jacobson served as two of my Officers. FCB knows of the remarkable capabilities of these
two ladies. My other Officers were also conscientious, but are not as well known to White Cane Bulletin readers. A President can witness
at first hand high achievements by officers that are challenged. We can all do more than we might believe possible, given the opportunity.
Sharing the responsibility for the group's activities adds to the scope and depth of those activities. When the group is working toward a
shared goal, and Members are working together, you will have created an environment more likely to attract new Members.
I accepted the Cooke Award based on my recognition of the value of Linda's example and continuing those policies and procedures. I
pass these ideas along in the hope that others might benefit from what I learned. And I thank Linda for demonstrating to me the value of
preparation for Council Presidents.
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TECH TIPS - by John Richards for the FCB Technology Committee
Organizing Folders and Files While using Windows Explorer
Your Computer is an electronic file cabinet containing folders and files. Many of the folders and files are created when the operating
system is installed. However, the user may also create folders and organize files while using Windows Explorer.
The Windows Explorer debuted in Windows 95 as a replacement for the older Windows 3.x File Manager. You can access Windows
Explorer by double-clicking the My Computer desktop icon, or launch it from the Start Menu.
Navigate to the "My Computer" icon located on your desktop or in the start menu. Vista users should have an icon named "Computer" on
the desktop. Press the Enter key and windows explorer will be launched. You will then be in a list view of available drives and folders
accessible to you on your system. Use your up and down arrow keys to navigate the list.
Navigate to the "C" drive and press Enter. You will hear or see something like "local hard drive C" or something to that affect. You will then
be in a list of folders and files created when the operating system and additional programs were installed. At this point, you can create
folders to store files you generate for your own use.
In order to create a folder, follow these steps:
1. Hold down the Alt key and press the letter F, release the Alt key, then press the letter W.
2. You should be highlighting the "folder" selection. If not, use your up or down arrow keys to navigate to "folder" and press Enter.
3. You will then be in an edit field where you are able to type text. The words "new folder" will show up in this edit field. Simply type the
name for the new folder and press Enter.
The new folder you have just created will appear at the bottom of the list. Press the F5 key to refresh the list and your new folder will
appear in alphabetical order in the list view. Navigate to your newly created folder and press enter. You will then have opened an empty
folder, ready to receive files. Hold down the Alt key and press the F4 key to close Windows Explorer. You can also navigate to the "my
documents folder" on the desktop, press Enter and land in a list view of folders and files in the My Documents folder. You may then create
subfolders for file storage.
Caution!! Unless you possess a working knowledge of what you are doing, I would advise you to stay out of system folders such as
windows and system32, etc. Those are folders created when the operating system was installed and contain crucial operating system
files.
The Technology Committee urges everyone to use the FCB chat rooms that are linked to:
http://www.fcb.org
Click on the "Voice Chat for FCB" link. When the page loads, you can either click on the "Florida Council of the Blind General Chat Room"
link or the "Florida Council of the Blind Board & Committee Chat Room" link. When the page loads, First time users should click the
"download here button" to install the plugin called tcConference. tcConference is a little piece of software that lets you talk with others,
anywhere in the world. When you click the "Download Here" button you will be prompted to download or run the tcConference software.
Select "Run" and tcConference will be installed to your system. When tcConference has been installed, click on the "Finish" button to
complete the installation process. At that point, you should return to the web page you were at before you performed the software
installation. Now, click on the link that says "Click here to enter in the room." A page will load with two edit fields, prompting you for a
username and password. Type your name in the first edit field and leave the second edit field blank. Press "Enter" and you should be
launched in to the room. You should hear a sound when you enter the room. If others are present, you may hear them talking. Press your
Control key to talk and release it to listen. If you are unable to perform any of the above tasks, feel free to contact a Member of the
Technology Committee for assistance.
If you know when you have a meeting scheduled in either of the rooms, ask for assistance a day or two in advance so someone can assist
you in a timely manner. Please feel free to contact me if you are having difficulty with either of the chat rooms. My contact information is
located in the "FCB OFFICERS, 2008 - 2010" section of this publication.
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CHAPTER NEWS - Mid-Florida Council of the Blind
Mid-Florida Council of the Blind - by Jay Bader
MFCB was proud of the Members that attended the FCB Annual Convention this past May in Jacksonville. A great time was had by all! We
were also proud of the Members who were not able to attend but listened to coverage of this year's Convention on ACB Radio World. Many
thanks to MFCB Recording Secretary Larry Turnbull (who also is involved with ACB Radio) for the superb job in streaming coverage from
Jacksonville, as well as for all his work in making it sound the best it could be.
Before the chapter took a break for the summer, MFCB held its Annual June Awards Luncheon, which took place on Saturday, June 7th, a
Gina's Lakeside Grill in Altamonte Springs. 1st Vice President (and FCB Treasurer) Patti Land, who chairs the Awards and Scholarship
Committee, presented the MFCB Chapter Award that was first announced at the FCB Convention in Jacksonville. That Member was
Jackie Gideons, who was very honored to receive the award.
Patti then had her fellow Committee Member Sheila Young present the recipients of this year's Connie Rotter Memorial Scholarship, whic
is named in honor of Connie Rotter, who proudly served MFCB for many years and is the sister of longtime Member Jim Lamb. Sheila
announced that a $250.00 scholarship went to Toni Clavie, who will attend the Florida A & M University Law School in Orlando; and a
$500.00 scholarship was awarded to Ramon Dukes and he will be attending Valencia Community College.
Also, a special Love Offering was collected. Delaney Ketts, the young daughter of longtime friend of MFCB, Dianne Ketts, who chairs the
Central Florida Advocates for Accessible Public Rights-of-Way (CFA) and is an Orientation and Mobility Specialist at Lighthouse Central
Florida, tragically passed away on May 14th. The Love Offering raised $160.00, which will be given to Dianne for donating to all the various
organizations she chooses in Delaney's name.
The ACB National Convention will take place in Louisville, KY just as this issue of the White Cane Bulletin is being sent, and many of the
MFCB Officers will be attending, especially to get a good idea as to what to expect when ACB returns to Orlando in 2009. The ACB
National Convention was in Orlando in 1998, and until Las Vegas in 2005, it was the biggest Convention for ACB.
So needless to say, we in MFCB look forward to doing all possible to make next year's ACB Convention again the largest in ACB history.
MFCB Officers and a few Members will be working on the Host Committee for 2009.
Finally, MFCB is in the early stages of assisting with planning for this year's White Cane Safety Event in October. CFA will again be leading
the way, with many disability organizations, including our chapter and the National Federation of the Blind-Greater Orlando Chapter,
involved in the activity. More details on this should be in the next Chapter News.
MFCB wishes everyone a very Happy and Safe Summer, and we expect to hit the ground running when we return in September.
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RECIPE CORNER
Grilled Burgers
(Makes 6 servings)
INGREDIENTS:
3/4 pound (360 g) ground sirloin
3/4 pound (360 g) lean ground turkey
2 tablespoons (29 g) low fat sour cream
1 teaspoon (5 ml) crushed dried oregano
2 scallions, white part and 1 inch (2.5 cm) green, chopped
6 sesame hamburger buns, split and toasted
DIRECTIONS:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground sirloin, ground turkey, sour cream, oregano, and scallion. Mix well. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.
2. Light the grill or preheat the broiler. Shape the beef mixture into 8 1-inch (cm) thick patties. Grill or broil 4 inches (10 cm) from the source
of heat for 4 to 6 minutes per side. Serve on toasted buns.
Per serving:
289 calories (26 percent calories from fat), 29 g protein, 8 g total fat (3.0 g saturated fat), 23 g carbohydrates, 1 g dietary fiber, 61 mg
cholesterol, 312 mg Sodium
Diabetic exchanges:
3 lean protein, 1 1/2 carbohydrate (bread/starch)
Tequila-Marinated Hot Chicken Wings
(Makes 42 to 44 pieces)
INGREDIENTS:
3 pounds (1.4 kg) chicken wings, about 21 to 22 wings, separated at the joints, wing tips discarded
1/2 cup (120 ml) tequila
1/2 cup (32 g) chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup (60 ml) fresh orange juice
1/4 cup (60 ml) fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
1/2 tablespoon (7.5 ml) cracked fresh pepper
3 large cloves garlic, minced
1 to 2 teaspoons (5 to 10 ml) Tabasco sauce, or to taste
1 teaspoon (5 ml) grated orange zest
1 teaspoon (5 ml) grated lime zest
2 long strips orange zest, curled into spirals for garnish
2 fresh limes, cut into wedges for garnish
fresh cilantro sprigs for garnish
DIRECTIONS:
1. Rinse chicken wings and pat dry with paper towels. Lay in a single layer in a large glass-baking dish.
2. In a bowl, combine remaining ingredients except orange zest spirals, lime wedges, and cilantro sprigs for garnish. Pour mixture over
the chicken wings. Cover and refrigerate overnight, turning chicken wings several times.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C), Gas Mark 4.
4. Remove chicken wings from marinade and arrange in a large shallow roasting pan. Bake chicken wings for 30 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, pour marinade into a saucepan, place on the stove and bring to a full boil; reduce by half, stirring occasionally, about 6
minutes. Set aside.
6. Remove the wings from the oven and preheat the broiler.
7. Brush the wings with the reduced marinade and broil, 4 to 6 inches from source of heat, until wings are crisp and brown, turning wings
2 or 3 times and brushing with marinade. (Wings may be made ahead to this point and wrapped in aluminum foil. Rewarm in a 300°F (°C)
oven, opening the foil packet to uncover the wings.)
8. To serve, arrange the wings on a heated serving platter. Garnish with spirals of orange zest, lime wedges, and cilantro sprigs. Serve
warm.
Per 2-piece serving:
97 calories (64 percent calories from fat), 7 g protein, 7 g total fat (1.7 g saturated fat), 1 g carbohydrates, 0 dietary fiber, 27 mg cholesterol,
28 mg sodium
Diabetic exchanges:
1 medium fat protein, 1/2 fat
Shepherd's Pie
(Makes 6 servings)
Refrigerated butter-flavored cooking spray
1 cup (300 g), chopped onion
1 1/4 pounds (600 g) ground sirloin
1/2 cup (120 ml) fat-free canned beef broth
2 teaspoons (10 ml) Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon (15 ml) tomato paste
freshly ground pepper
1 1/2 pounds (720 g) russet potatoes, pealed and cut into equal size pieces
3 cloves garlic, cut in half
1/4 cup (60 ml) skim milk
2 fluid ounces (60 ml) egg substitute
freshly ground pepper
1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) kosher salt (optional)
1 cup (150 g) thawed frozen baby peas
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C), Gas Mark 7.
2. Coat a nonstick skillet with cooking spray. Add the onions, and sauté until they wilt. Add the meat and cook, separating with a wooden
spoon until meat has turned brown. Strain the beef mixture of all fat and liquid. Return to the skillet. Add the broth, Worcestershire sauce,
tomato paste, and pepper. Set aside.
3. Boil the potatoes with the garlic in lightly salted water until done. Drain the potatoes and remove the garlic. Mash the potatoes with the
milk and egg substitute. Season with pepper and salt (if using).
4. Place the meat mixture in the bottom of ovenproof casserole. Top with peas and then spread with mashed potatoes. Coat with cooking
spray. Bake for 15 to 20 to 25 minutes until heated through and top is nicely browned.
Per serving:
269 calories (18 percent calories from fat), 27 g protein, 5 g total fat (1.8 g saturated fat), 28 g carbohydrates, 3 g dietary fiber, 59 mg
cholesterol, 190 mg sodium
Diabetic exchanges:
3 very lean protein, 2 carbohydrate (1 1/2 bread/starch, 1 vegetable)
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FOIL - Submitted by Sheila Young
Have you ever pulled foil or plastic wrap off the roll, only to have the entire roll come out of the box? Well, this was just brought to my
attention, and I still can't believe that I haven't known this all the years I have been using the products. On each end of the box, there are
tabs that when you push them in they will hold the roll in the box, keeping the roll in place! If you say you knew this, congratulations on
being in the minority!!
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HANDY TELEPHONE NUMBER REFERENCES
Project Insight: 1-800-267-4448
Bureau of Braille and Talking Book Library Services: 1-800-226-6075
Division of Blind Services (Tallahassee State Headquarters): 1-800-342-1828
American Council of The Blind: 1-800-424-8666
(available only 3:00 to 5:30 PM EST Monday-Friday)
ACB's Legislative Hotline: 1-800-424-8666
(Evenings 8:00 PM - 12:00 Midnight EST
Weekends 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM only)
A T & T Disability Services: 1-800-872-3883
Press 00 and speak with your long distance carrier
BellSouth Disability Services: 780-2273 from anywhere
Social Security: 1-800-772-1213
24-hour voice and touch tone accessible
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